noun
shield bug; stink bug; pentatomid
Refers to insects of the family Pentatomidae, known for their shield-like shape and foul odor when threatened. Common in gardens and fields.
庭でカメムシを見つけた。
I found a stink bug in the garden.
カメムシは触ると臭い匂いを出す。
Stink bugs release a bad smell when touched.
Rarely used kanji form; 椿象 is a Chinese-derived name for stink bugs.
The name カメムシ (亀虫) literally means 'turtle bug', from its turtle-like shape. The exact origin is uncertain, but it is a native Japanese compound.